Category Archives: music

For those who don’t know, Jedward are Irish twins, John and Edward, who took part in the 2009 series of the talent show X Factor. They have also appeared on Celebrity Big Brother and represented Ireland in Eurovision. In England, it seems to be the ‘done’ thing to dislike them. But sister-of-mine is a dedicated fan, so when she went to see them play live in concert last weekend I was lucky enough to go with her.

On the way there, the sister and I were worried that we would be the oldest people there, save for the parents taking their ten year old girls to the concert. When we got there, we were pleasantly surprised to find quite a wide demographic. It was mainly young adult girls, but the middle-aged generation, men and children were also represented. What linked them all was a palpable sense of fun and sociability. And a love for Jedward, of course. There was a real sense of community.

Jedward’s music isn’t what I typically enjoy, but as performers they are great fun to watch. They back flip, dip into their choreography when they feel like it, mock fight with each other and change their jackets almost every other song. Adding to the fun were back up dancers, and a screen that played graphics and sometimes their music videos behind them. Whilst they were off stage changing outfits, the screen would play pre-prepared videos of them talking. Their random banter in between songs was so funny. Critics tend to say that they are talentless, but I disagree. John played the guitar well, both showed a versatility in their singing, also covering rapping and beatboxing, and anyone who can hold a note whilst jumping around and cartwheeling deserves credit. But even if they aren’t the best singers in the world, they are just amazing to watch and the atmosphere was great. They put on such a show!

Not pointing fingers at any artists in particular, but some could stand to learn a lot from Jedward. The twins obviously love and respect their fans, and they enjoy what they are doing. Their message is one of optimism and fun. They aren’t over-sexualised. Although, someone in the crowd did shout at them to take their trousers off. John was good enough to explain that their jeans were so tight that it would take forever to take them off, so it wasn’t a good idea.

What I admire most about Jedward though is that they haven’t let the haters change them. Despite the criticisms, they have carried on doing what they love, staying true to themselves. In a way it’s a good message for the younger fans – people are going to hate, put you down and maybe even bully you, but don’t give in to them, live your life.

Last week my friend bonjoviaddiction and I went to watch the band Bon Jovi Experience play at The Brook in Southampton. It’s an awesome venue, definitely go there if you get the chance. It seems to cater mainly to tribute bands, but original artists play there too. The stage is huge and there are two bars, one upstairs and one down, with plenty of space.

I’ve never really been into Bon Jovi’s music (aside from loving their song ‘Dead or Alive’ after hearing it in a Supernatural episode), but that didn’t matter. I love going to live music. I love the atmosphere, how loud it is, the energy, how raw and primal music sounds when you’re there watching it. The Bon Jovi Experiencerocked.

My friend, who is a Bon Jovi fan, told me that the band were accurate, especially the front man who was impersonating Jon Bon Jovi. He was pretty awesome, he looked like he was having so much fun up there. He was dancing about, giving it all that, women were screaming for him to touch their hands. What a great job to have! And this guy is a professional. He’s won look-alike competitions and has performed with Jon Bon Jovi himself.

So as far as I’m concerned, I’ve seen Bon Jovi play live now. I’d do it again, too. I’ve decided that the best way to listen to Bon Jovi now is to go and watch the Bon Jovi Experience play live. I wasn’t a fan when I walked into The Brook, but I was when I walked out.